Means for producing articles of fibrous composition



Nov. 19, 1940. E. c. sLoAN 2,222,003

MEANS FOR PRODUCING ARTICLES OF FIBROUS COMPOSITION Filed March 28, 1936 8 Sheets-Sheet l Tilt-till;

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Zz/ l/wa/Qd/ C. loczn/ Nov. 19, 1940. E. c. sLoAN 2,222,003

MEANS FOR PRODUGING ARTICLES OF FIBROUS COMPOSITION Filed March 28, 1956 8 Sheets-Sheet 2 Nov. 19, 1940. E. c. sLoAN 2,222,003

MEANS FOR PRODUCING ARTICLES OF FIBROUS COMPOSITION Filed March 28, 1956 8 Sheets-SheecI 3 Nov. 19, 1940. E. c. sLoAN 2,222,003

MEANS FOR PRODUCING ARTICLES OF FIBROUS COMPOSITION Filed March 28, 1956 8 Sheets-Sheet 4 III CIEICI IICICIII 8 Sheets-Sheet 5 E. C. SLOAN MEANS FOR PRODUCING ARTICLES OF FIBROUS COMPOSITION Filed March 28, 1936 Nov. 19, 1940.

E. C. SLOAN Nov. 19, 1940.

MEANS FOR PRODUCING ARTICLES OF FIBROUS COMPOSITION Filed March 28, 1936 8 Sheets-Sheet 6 Nov. 19, 1940. E. c. sLoAN 2,222,003

MEANS FOR PRODUCING ARTICLES 0F FIBROUS COMPOSITION Filed March 28, 1956 8 Sheets-Sheet '7 @ZM ww@ Nov. 19, 1940. O E C, SLQAN 2,222,003

MEANS FOR PRODUCING ARTICLES OF FIBROUS COMPOSITION Filed March 28, 1936 8 Sheets-Sheet B Patented Nov. 19, 1940 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE MEANS FOR PRODUCING ARTICLES OF FIBROUS COMPOSITION Application March 28, 1936, Serial No. 71,524

4 Claims.

The present invention relates to the art of making or producing articles preferably of accreted, interlaced and integrated fibrous material and particularly a novel method of drying or finishing the article and a novel means for effecting the same. The invention is especially adapted for use in finishing the hat disclosed in my co-pending application Serial No. 4,862, filed February 4, 1935. l The invention comprehends the provision of a novel drying or dry finishing die means comprising a rigid female die having a contoured face portion or wall conforming to the contoured face portion of the article to be dried or dry finished, 15 and a yieldable male die so constructed and arranged to controllably distribute pressure on the article blank or carcass interposed between the male and female die, with suitable means to supply heat to the blank or carcass for driving off 2o fluids, such as water, steam, vapors, gases, or the like, and also with novel means for affording ready and facile escape of such fluids.

A further object is to provide in such a means, novel means for readily and rapidly draining or 25 conducting away the uids mentioned, with or without additional or auxiliary draining features. A further object of the invention is to provide novel means for applying a differential of pressure over different given or predetermined parts 3U or portions of the blank or carcass as desired and needed for eilicient drying or dry finishing of the article without danger of damaging any part of the carcass, such as scorching or the like. as also applying the pressure progressively in assistance "J of a rapid escape of the fluids driven off by the heat of the die means.

Other objects, advantages, capabilities, features, process steps, or the like are comprehended by the invention as will later appear and as are inherently possessed by the invention.

Referring to the drawings:

Fig. l is a view in vertical section of a means for accreting, interlacing and integrating fibrous material to produce an article blank or carcass,

such as that for a hat or the like, the device being shown in different; stages of operation;

Fig. 2 is a vertical sectional view through an illustrative embodiment of drying die means com- 50 prehended by the invention;

Fig. 3 is a similar view in another stage of operation;

Fig. 3a is an elevational view of a finished product such as a hat having a beaded edge produced 55 as disclosed in Patent No. 2,093,167, issued September 14, 1937, to William C. Gray, entitled Forming die means;

Fig. 4 is a vertical sectional view of an alternate form of die means having segmental or sectional portions for differential distribution of pressure and heat;

Fig. 5 is a similar view of another alternate form for increasing the efficacy and rate of drainage or escape of the fluids driven oi by the heat of the die means;

Fig. 6 is a fragmentary sectional view on an enlarged scale of the die means with an illustrative embodiment of a drain or escape means for the fluids driven olf by the heat ofthe die means;

Figs. 7 and 8 are fragmentary plan views on an 16 enlarged scale of an element of the yieldable die member and of means for the draining or escape of the uds driven oi by the heat of the die means;

Fig. 9 is a fragmentary sectional view on an en- 20 larged scale of another embodiment of the means for the draining or escape of the fluids driven off by the heat of the die means;

Figs. 10 and 11 are fragmentary sectional and plan views on an enlarged scale of a further alternate form of the means for the draining or escape of the fluids driven 01T by the heat of the die means;

Fig. 12 is a fragmentary sectional view on an enlarged scale of a further alternate form of the means for the draining or escape of the fluids driven 01T by the heat of the die means;

Fig. 13 is a vertical sectional view similar to Fig. 1 but showing the accreting, interlacing and integrating of another form of article, such as a vase, pot, or container or the like;

Fig. 14 is a similar view of a drying die means for the form of article mentioned above and shown in finished form in Fig. 16a;

Fig. 15 is a horizontal sectional view taken in a plane represented by line l5-I5 in Fig. 14 of the drawings;

Fig. 16 is a vertical sectional view of an alternate embodiment of drying die means embodying the means for different distributions of pressure;

Fig. 16a is an elevational view of the article produced by the above means;

Fig. 17 is a vertical sectional view of another alternate form of drying die means with means for increasing the efcacy and rate of the draining or escape of the fluids driven off by the heat of the drying die means;

Fig. 18 is a transverse sectional view taken in a plane represented by line lll-I8 in Fig. 17 of the drawings; and,

2 paganos i Fig. 19 is a view partly in plan and partly sectional of a lateral support member used in the lower part of the die means shown in Figs. 2, 3, 4,

5, 14, and 17.

b Referring more in detail to the drawings a few embodiments are shown illustrative of the invention. In Fig. 1 is shown an illustrative means for accreting, interlacing and integrating an article, such as a hat, from fibrous material in suspension in a suspending fluid such as water. The material used is preferably pulp or the like, but it may include any other fibrous material such as wool, cotton, linen, silk, jute, hemp, asbestos, kapok, or any other kind of brous material, the

term pulp being herein used generically to include any or any combination of the various fibres that may be used. The pulp may be prepared as disclosed in my above mentioned copending application Serial No. 4,862.

2O The means selected to illustrate the invention comprises a molding or forming die in the form of a contoured plate I provided with a plurality of openings or apertures 2 fo'r the passage therethrough of the fluids of the bath holding the fibres in suspension, the lower rim 3 of this plate being seated upon a table or platen 4 having an apertured hub 5 in which is secured the upper end of a duct 6 leading to a suitable source of suction or pressure (not shown). The platen 4 is so constructed, arranged and adapted by suitable means (not shown) as to be lowered into and raised out of the bath 1 in a vat or tank 8. The plate I and the platen 4 enclose a chamber 9 in which is normally created a suction or sub-atmospheric pressure for the drawing of the Water of the bath through the holes 2. The bath 1 consists of water, fibrous material and any of the substances above mentioned for treating the fibres, the fibres being maintained in dispersed suspension in the water by any suitable agitation of the bath by any desired means (not shown). The duct 6 is flexible so as to accommodate for the movement of the platen and the molding means.

The upper and outer surface of the plate I is shaped or contoured to conform with the shape or form of the article to be molded or accreted thereon. Upon this contoured surface is a reticulated sheet or screen I IJ of fine mesh conforming in shape or contour to the surface contour of the plate I.

In operation with the device in the position shown in full lines in Fig. l, a suction or subatmospheric pressure is created in the chamber 9, and the platen 4 with the plate I and screen I0 are lowered and submerged in the bath 1, as shown by the dotted line position thereof in Fig. 1 of the drawings. The suction draws the water through the interstices of the screen I0 and the holes 2 of the plate I to be delivered to the duct 6, causing a deposit, accretion, interlacing and integration of the fibres in the form of a contoured layer or stratum II on the screen I0, the thickness and compactness or the density of this stratum depending upon the time of immersion,

the magnitude of the suction, the nature of the fibres and the percentage of fibres in the bath. In some cases setting up a vibration ln the molding or forming die or in the bath mass or both will also have some effect, particularly in the 7o interlacing of the fibres, the vibration causing the fibres to be more effectively interlaced.

When the desired layer or stratum is accreted, interlaced and integrated, the platen 4, the molding die I-I0 and the brous stratum 75 thereon are raised out of the bath 1. The suction during the emergence of the device and stratum is continued to prevent the washing away or sloughing olf of the brous material, and also after emergence thereof, to draw air through the brous blank or stratum for removing sur- 5 plus water, that is, as a preliminary step in the drying of the blank I I. If desired warm or heated air or the like may be thus drawn through the blank to dry the blank to some extent but it ls preferable to dry the blank in a manner herein- 10 after more fully disclosed.

To assist in expelling the surplus water in the blank, a female die I2 shown in dotted lines in Fig. 1 may be applied to the blank with pressure to squeeze out some of the water as also to partly l5 compress or compact the blank, the suction in the chamber 9 continuing to draw out this water and discharge it through the duct 6.

The female die I2 comprises a contoured wall or plate I3 conforming to the shape or contour of 20 the blank and having holes or apertures I4 for the passage of air. At the base is provided a flange I5 upon which seats the lower edge portion I6 of the housing or casing I1 of the female die, this casing comprising side walls I8 and a 25 top wall I9, thus enclosing a chamber 20 about the wall I3. The parts are suitably secured together by any suitable securing means (not shown). At a -suitably low point is connected a pipe or duct 2l for the passage of fluid under 30 pressure, either sub-atmospheric or super-atmospheric as required or desired, and also for the draining out of any water that might pass through the holes I4 when the wet blank II 'Ls being compressed between the die walls I and 35 I3. At the time when the blank is being compressed and the suction in the chamber 9 is acting to draw the water from the blank, a iiuid pressure may also be created in the chamber 2U so as to increase the pressure differential on the 4o opposite sides of the blank and thus effect a greater expelling of the surplus water from the blank.

The die I2 also serves as a transfer means for the blank II. After the blank II has been com- 45 pressed as described above, the suction in chamber 9 is discontinued and, if desired, a pressure may be created therein. while at the same time a suction is created in the chamber 20 of the female die. 'Ihis will cause the blank to cling or 50 adhere to the contoured wall I3 of the female die so that as the die I2 is lifted or raised the blank II will be lifted or raised with it. The die I2 with the blank II clinging or adhering to it is then brought over a male die more fully dis- 55 closed hereinafter in connection with Figs. 2, 3,

4 and 5 of the drawings, and deposited thereon by changing the suction in the chamber 20 to apressure so as to blow or force off the blank whereby it will be properly seated on the male die. 60

One form of male die is shown in Figs. 2 and 3. It is of the yieldable type and comprises a hollow member or bag 22 composed of any suitable yieldable material, such as rubber, gutta percha or the like with or without embedded re- 65 inforcing means such as a yieldable fabric whether of metal mail, textile elements inwoven, knitted, netted. or like fabrication, etc. The member 22 is normally of the same contour as the blank II and at its base comprises a flange 23 clamped between a platen 24 and a flange 25 of a hollow rigid member 26 also contoured to conform to the general contour of the member 22, the clamping being effected by any suitable means as bolts 21. The thickness of the member 22 preferably decreases or tapers toward the upper portion thereof for a reason later disclosed. Upon the member 22 reposes a drain means or uid escape means 28 generally and conventionally shown in Figs. 2 and 3 and more specically shown in various forms in Figs. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 of the drawings and more fully described later.

Within the member 22 is provided a chamber 29, in which is included the rigid member 26,

comprising a space 38 between the lower portion of the member 22 and the rigid member 26, as also a passage 3| over the upper end 32 of the member 26, this chamber being designed to contain a fluid, preferably a liquid, under pressure. 'I'he platen 24 is suitably apertured for the connection of a pipe or duct 33 for the conduction of the pressure fluid from a suitable source of pressure (not shown).

In the upper part of the chamber 29 is located a hollow rigid member 34 having a chamber 35 and a wall 36, this member 34 forming together with the member 26 relatively movable parts or components of the rigid die part of the yieldable male die mentioned, the relative movement between these parts being as desired within the limits of the space 3| between the wall 36 and the upper edge portion 32 of the member 26. The wall 36 is provided with a suitable opening 31 for the passage of the pressure fluid mentioned.

Rigid or integral with the wall 36 is a sleeve 38 having telescopic relation with a stem 39 having a head 48 provided with a flange 4| between which and the wall 36 reacts a helical spring 42 normally tending to hold the parts 34 and 26 apart. The stress of the spring 42 is adjusted or regulated by a screw 43 threaded in the platen 24 and held in adjusted position by a lock nut 44, the upper end of the screw being suitably designed, such as by having a pivot tip 45 in a pivot recess in the base of the head 40. The platen 24 at its margin has an encircling flange 46 to enclose a chamber 41 encircling the lower portion 43 of the yieldable die and also the lower portion 49 of the drain means,

To prevent the portions 48 and 49 from being distended or bulged into the chamber 41 when fluid pressure is applied to the inside of the bag 22, a lateral-support ring 50 is provided in the chamber 41 and adjacent to the portions 48 and 49 above mentioned. This ring encircles these portions 48 and 49 and is provided with apertures 5I for the passage of the fluids driven off by the heat of the die means, such as the water, steam, vapors, gases or the like into the chamber 41. The ring may have a few lugs 52 for holding the ring 59 in proper position in the chamber 41 as shown in Figs. 2 and 3. At one or more points, the chamber 41 isconnected by way of one or more pipes or ducts 53 for the draining away of the fluids mentioned above, such as the water, steam, vapors, gases, or the like, driven off by the heat of the die means, and if desired such pipe or pipes may be connected to any suitable source of suction (not shown).

The rigid die member comprises a contoured wall 54 the inside surface of which is so outlined and designed as to give to the contoured surface of the hat blank or carcass the desired conguration or decoration. The wall 54 has a base flange 55 so constructed and arranged as to form Either rigid or integral with the Wall 54 near its base are provided side walls 56 upon which is a cover plate or top wall 51, these walls enclosing the chamber 58 around the wall 54.

Within the chamber 58 is located a device for distributing a heating medium upon the outer surface of the contoured wall 54, this device comprising a plurality of annular ducts 59, 60 and 6| having apertures 62, 63 and 64 so disposed and located as to distributively project jets or sprays of the heat bearing medium, such as a vapor or a volatile liquid whereby the heating of the contoured wall 54 may be effected over the various portions thereof as desired. A condensible vapor is preferable because of the abundance of the heat of vaporization available when the vapor condenses. The duct 68 is connected to the ducts 59 and 6| by suitable ducts 65 and 66 for the conducting of the heat bearing uid thereto, and a duct 61 leading to the heat bearing fluid source (not shown) is connected to the duct 60. At low points in th chamber 58 are connected outlet or drain ducts 68 for conducting away the heating fluid after giving up its heat to the wall 54. Any form of heat bearing Huid may be used whether it be in gaseous, vaporous, or liquid form. At the top of the wall 54 is provided a hub or boss 69 with a recess in which is fixed an end 10 of a duct or pipe 1| connected to a fitting 12 having valves 13 and 14, the valve 13 being connected to a pipe or duct 15 and the valve 14 to a pipe or duct 16 having its lower end fixed in the flange 55 and leading to the chamber 41. In the bottom of the recess in the top part or hub 66 is provided a plug 11 having a plurality of holes or apertures 18 for the passage of water, steam, vapors, gases or the like, given oiT from the top part of the carcass when subjected to heat. Depending uponfwhich valve 13 or 14 is open the driven-olf fluids may pass to the duct 15 to escape in the atmosphere or any other desired place, or by way of the duct 16 to the draining chamber 41 which, if desired, may be subjected to sub-atmospheric pressure for more effectively drawing away or draining the fluids mentioned. The drain means 28 between the carcass or blank I and the yieldable die is more particularly shown in various specific forms in Figs. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 of the drawings. In one form this means comprises an aggregate of rigid elements 19 which may be of any desired shape, such as circular as shown in Figs. 7 and 8. These elements are so interlinked as to provide innumerable intercommunicating spaces or voids among them to provide for a continuous, although tortuous, but free path or passage through the extent of the aggregate for the ready and rapid escape or draining of the fluids given off from the carcass under the effect of the heat supplied by of the rings 19 contacting the .surface of the layer 90. Under these conditions when the layer stretches the rings 19 will slip on each other so as to assume a more spaced relation such as is shown in Fig. 7, and when the layer 80 contracts the rings 19 will slip on each other so as to assume a more crowded condition such as is shown in Fig.

8. In other words, as a whole, the ring aggregate u stretches and shrinks with the layer 80 and the bag 22, besides being also pliant in a transverse direction to easily and quickly conform to the contour of the inner surface of the carcass or blank I I as pressure is applied by way of the bag 22. The layer 8D may merely repose on the bag 22 or may be engaged to it in any suitable manner as by vulcanizing or otherwise. 'Ihe links 19, of course, may be of any form desired, as in the form of mail elements or the like.

If the layer 80 be of a fabric, such as woven fabric, it is preferable that the threads be on a bias and so Woven, as loosely, as to permita considerable latitude of stretching and contracting in any and all directions. Knitted and netted fabrics are usually easily strainable in al1 direc. tions. When using a fabric the links 19 may be at. ached to it as desired as by thread loops or the like. On the side towards the carcass the aggregate of elements 19 contacts at innumerable points so that the total thrust is evenly distributed and divided with but very little pressure intensity at each point of contact so that the resultant effect is substantially a smooth contact against the inner surface of the carcass. The direction of pressure is at a normal to the surface of the carcass at each point of contact. By such a device the pressure is applied directly by mechanical means with the same advantage as if the pressure were applied by a liquid in accordance with the physical principle that a liquid transmits pressure at a normal to the surface pressed against at each point of contact.

In Fig. 9 instead of using the layer 80 shown in Fig. 6, a facilely strainable fabric layer 8I- of woven, knitted, netted, or the like texture is used preferably between the aggregate 28 of elements 19 and the inner surface of the carcass or blank I I, the fabric 8I having ample spaces or voids for the free passage of the fluids driven off from the carcass by the heat to the drain means 28. The bights of the links 'I9 contacting the fabric 8I may be connected thereto in any suitable manner as by thread loops, or the like, so that the aggregate 28 may stretch or contract with the fabric BI as the bag 22 expands or contracts. The fabric 8I might, if desired, be on the side of the aggregate 28 next to the bag 22, that is, between the aggregate and the bag.

The form of drain means 28 shown in Figs. 10 and 1l preferably comprises a soft or yieldable back portion or back 82, such as soft rubber or the like, and a hard or rigid face portion 83, such as hard rubber or the like, provided with a plurality of channels 84 and 85 so as to provide a plurality of elements 86 each separated from the others by the channels mentioned. The channels extend into the soft portion 82 and below the hard parts 86 so that each element may flex at the region of the bases of the channels when the drain means is applied to the contoured surface of the carcass II. The free ends of the elements 8B are preferably flat or substantially so and in the aggregate form a substantially continuous but expansible and contractible smooth surface for pressure contact against the inner contoured surface of -the blank II. When the bag 22 expands the portion 82 stretches and the elements 86 separate and when the bag 22 contracts the portion 82 also contracts or shrinks and the elements 86 become closer. The channels 84 and 85 receive the fluids given oil? from the carcass II by the heat, and afford a free Way of escape of the fluids mentioned to the drain chamber 41 (Fig. 2), and, in some cases of operation. also by way of a duct 1| connected at the top of the die part 54. By using element 86 of this type a greater area of surface contact is effected yet having ample drainage passages for the escape of the fluids mentioned. The pliability of the portion 82 affords a facile pressing of the elements 88 over the whole extent of the contoured surface of the carcass, the pressure being directed at all points at a normal to such surface at each point of contact.

In Fig. 12 is shown another form of drain means 28 that may be used, and which comprises a backing 81 of yieldable material, such as rubber, woven, knitted or netted fabric, or the like, with an aggregate of stiff wire-like elements 88 an end of each of which is anchored in the backing 81 and the free ends or tips 89 of which are in a common surface coincident with the inner contoured surface of the carcass I I. Among the elements 88 are provided innumerable spaces or voids for the ready flow or escape of the fluids given off from the carcass by the heat. The elements 88 may be in the form of staples with the heads thereof in or at the backing 81. By reason of the pliability of the backing 81, the elements 88 may readily flex, that is, the free ends or tips 89 thereof may separate or approach each other as the aggregate of the elements press against the convexed or concaved contour of the surface of the carcass I I. 'I'he backing normally reposes on the bag 22 and as the latter expands or contracts the backing 81 likewise expands or contracts. The tips 89 being in a common surface present a comparatively smooth surface contact with the carcass, the total thrust being distributed and divided among the innumerable elements 88. Whether or not there is some penetration of the tips 89 into the carcass II I am not prepared to state, yet if there be any it would be beneficial because of providing between the tips and the fibres of the carcass avenues of escape from Within the carcass body for the fluids given off by the heat from the Wall 54. As in the other forms of the draining means this form (Fig. 12) also readily flexes and presses substantially evenly over the whole extent of the surface of the carcass, the pressure being directed at a normal to such surface at each point of contact.

In operation the chambers 29 and 35 are filled with a suitable fluid, preferably a hot fluid, such as hot water, or hot oil, or the like, which fluid is put under suitable pressure from any suitable pressure source (not shown) the pressure being transmitted by way of the pipe 33. To dry or dry finish a carcass, the fluid pressure in the yieldable die is reduced or released, and the rigid and yieldable dies are separated. The accreted carcass received from the accreting means shown in Fig. 1, is then placed on the yieldable die, that is, upon the draining means 28. The dies are then brought together by suitable press-operatlng means (not shown) so that the flange 55 will close or seal the chamber 41. Pressure is first effected by way of the upper rigid member 34 through the upper portion of the bag 22, the latter so yielding or otherwise as to conform to the contour of the upper portion of the blank II and as to press the upper portion of the draining means 28 to also conform to the contour of the upper portion of the blank II. This effects a pressing of the upper portion of the carcass II against the upper portion of the hot wall 54 so as to start the driving off of the fluids such as the water, steam, vapors, gases, or the like, at that portion of the carcass, the lower portion of the draining means being still free and not loaded with like fluids. The fluids mentioned escape ln the interspersed spaces or voids in the draining means 28 .thence to the chamber 41 to be drained out by way of the pipe 53, a suction being used if desired to assist in this action. If either valve 13 or 14 be open some of the fluids will escape by way of the ducts 1| to either pipe 15 or 16.

At the same time, the pressure iluid in the chambers 29 and 35 is put under .pressure so that the pressure fluid in the space between the bag 22 and the rigid wall 26 will expand that portion of the bag and cause the lower portion of the draining means to press the lower portion of the carcass against the lower portion of the hot Wall 54, to then drive oif the fluids, such as water, steam, vapors, gases, or the like from that portion of the carcass into the draining passages in the draining means and thence to the chamber 41. Then the pressure in .the fluid in the yieldable die is reduced or released and the dies separate, so that the dried or dry nished carcass may be removed. This cycle of operation is effected in but a few seconds of time.

It will be noted that the upper portion of the bag 22 may be thinner than the lower portion thereof. That is of advantage when it is desired to apply heat from within the carcass, as from the hot pressure uid, so as to assist the action of the heat from the upper portion of the wall 54 when the pressing action is initiated. As the fluids are acted upon by the heat from the wall 54, they will tend, if trapped, to act as heat insulation, and it might require more heat at a higher temperature to effectively drive off all of the fluids through the thickness of the carcass. By also supplying heat from within the carcass, less heat at a higher temperature mentioned above will be required, as suiilcient heat to reach only half way through the carcass need be supplied from each side and the danger of scorching or otherwise damaging the blank will be avoided.

After the carcass is removed from the dies, it is then operated upon by suitable forming dies to produce a bead 90 at the edge of the article, such as a hat as shown in Fig. 3a, such as the die means disclosed in Patent No, 2,093,167, issued September 14, 1937, to William C. Gray.

In the form of device shown in Fig. 2, the carcass has no coverings at the time it is operated upon, the coverings being later applied. Such coverings may be merely a stratum or strata o`f a fused and solidified permanent thermoplastic substance of a vinyl resin base type, preferably of the polymerization group, or may be sheets of textile fabric bound to the carcass by such a substance, or the like as desired. When binding the fabric to the carcass, the device of Fig. 2 may be used and, hence, in Fig. 3 is shown the same as applied .to a carcass having inner and outer coverings 9| and 92 of cloth being bound with the thermoplastic substance by the heat of the dies, the heat fusing the thermoplastic which acts as an extremely tenacious adhesive when it cools and solidiiies. The structure of Fig. 3 is otherwise identical to that shown in Fig. 2.

In some cases it may be desirable to apply different pressures over different areas of the article, as also diiferent heat effects. In Fig. 4 is shown a device of this type. The female or rigid die part is identical to the corresponding female or rigid die part shown in Figs. 2 and 3 and, therefore, the same reference characters are used.

The yieldable die comprises a central or inner yieldable or pliant die part or bag 22El and an outer or encircling die part or bag 22". These bags -are of yieldable material, such as rubber, or the like. The bag 22 has a flange 93 clamped between a ring 94 and a portion 95 of a platen 96 by means of bolts 91. The platen 96 has (as in Figs. 2 and 3) an upstanding flange 46 with which seats and seals the flange 55 of the female die to close achamber 41. In the chamber 41 is a lateral support ring 50 having apertures 5|, for preventing .the distortion of the Wall 98 of the yieldable bag 22h when pressure is imposed thereon. The bag 22b h-as flanges 99 and |00 clamped between rings IOI and |02 and the platen 96 by bolts |03 and |04. Between the carcass and the bags 22a and 22b is placed a draining means 28 and between the bags 22a and 22b is placed a draining means 28a. Within the chamber |05 formed by the bag 22 and associated parts is located a rigid die member |06 having a charnber |01 and a shank |08 extending in a helical spring |09 reacting between the member |05 and the flange ||0 of a head having a shaft ||2 in telescopic relation with the shank |08. The head I II is regulated by a screw I3 threaded in the platen 96 and having a pivotal engagement with the head the screw II3 being set in adjusted or regulated position by a lock nut I4. The member |06 has a passage I I5 for entry of pressure fluid to the chamber |01. The draining means 22D extends to a chamber ||6 with which is connected a pipe or duct I I1 which may be connected to a suitable source of suction/ ...ot shown). To supply fluid under pressure to the bags 22a and 22h, the ring 94 is connected by way of a duct or pipe IIB and the platen 96 is connected to a duct or pipe I I9 respectively communicating with the chambers |05 and |20 of the bags 22a and 22|.

The drain means 28 and 28l may be of any of the specific forms shown in Figs. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12.

It is preferable to apply diiferent pressures to the bags 22a and 22h, as for example, a greater pressure may be eiected in the fluid (such as hot oil or the like) in a chamber |05 to give the upper portion of the blank a greater thrust, and a lesser pressure in the fluid (such as hot oil or the like) in chamber |20 to give the lower portion of the blank a lesser thrust. When a. given pressure exists in chamber I 05, in order to prevent the outward bulging or distortion of the adjacent wall portions |2| and |22 of the bags 22 and 22h, a lateral supporting ring or band |23 of suitable material which will not stretch in length is disposed adjacent the outer face of the wall |22.

In some cases it may be desirable that the upper portion of the carcass be compressed and dried slightly in advance of the lower portion of the carcass, whereby the pressure in the chamber |05 will be effected prior to the pressure in the chamber |20. As indicated above, the pressure in chamber |20 may be less than in chamber |05, but in some cases the pressure in chamber I 20 may be the same or brought up from a lower pressure to the same pressure as in chamber |05, depending upon the desired or needed results of drying in different portions of the article.

By having a drain means 28a between the bags 22a and 22h, an additional avenue of escape is presented intermediate the upper and lower portions of the carcass for the fluids driven off from the carcass by the heat. In other respects this device operates as does that shown in Figs. 2 and 3 of the drawings.

In the form of device shown in Fig. 5 a yieldable die of the type shown in Figs. 2 and 3 is used but with additional means for conducting oi the fluids given off by the heat, the conducting means being applied at any desired number of points and intermediate the upper and lower portions of the blank or carcass I The rigid or female die part is identical to those shown in Figs. 2, 3 and 4. The yieldable die part has a platen |24 having (as shown in Figs. 2, 3 and 4) an upstanding flange 46 with which seats and seals the fiange 55 of the female die to close the chamber 41. In the chamber 41 is a lateral support ring 50 having apertures 5|, for preventing the distortion of the wall |25 of the yieldable. die part or bag 22c when pressure is imposed thereon. The bag 22c has a. flange |26 clamped between a ring |21 and the platen |24 by bolts |28.

At an intermediate portion of the bag 22c may be provided any desired number of nipples |29 to each of which is connected an end of a flexible duct |30, the other end of the duct being connected to a nipple |3| extending through and fixed to the platen |24 as by a suitable fitting |32, the latter being connected to a duct or pipe |33 leading to a suitable source of suction (not shown) if desired. The drain means 28c corresponding to the drain means 28 of Figs. 2 and 3, and being of any specific form as shown in Figs. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12, has suitable openings |34 registering with the nipples |29. By such a structure fluids driven ofi by the heat are rapidly and readily conducted away, especially at the upper portion of the die. The ducts |30 are so reinforced as not to collapse under the pressure of the fiuid in the chamber |35 in the bag 22c but may easily bend or flex under the expanding and contracting action of the bag 22. To the platen |24 is connected a duct |36 for supplying fluid (such as hot oil) under pressure to the chamber |35. In other respects the structure is similar to that shown in Fig. 4 and is correspondingly identified by like reference characters. The operation of the device is similar to that described in connection with Figs. 2, 3 and 4.

In Figs. 13 to 19 inclusive are shown means for making and drying or dry finishing an article of different form, Fig. 13 showing the means for accreting etc. such an article. Specifically, the article selected to illustrate the invention is in the form of a container, such as a bowl, drinking vessel, pot, or the like. The accreting etc. in this case is effected from below instead of from above and upon the molding die means.

Referring more in detail to the drawings, and particularly Fig. 13, a few embodiments are shown illustrative of the invention. In Fig. 13 is shown an illustrative means for accreting, interlacing and integrating an article, such as a pot, container or the like, from fibrous material in suspension in a suspending fluid such as water as described in connection with Figs. 1 to 12.

'I'he accreting means comprises a contoured plate or wall |31 having a plurality of holes or apertures |38, and a base iiange |39 having a depending rim |40. Within the wall |31 is located a contoured sheet |4| which may be reticulated or porous as desired, this sheet being held in adjacency with the wall |31 in any suitable manner. The lower end of the wall |31 has a shoulder |42, and the rim |40 has a chamfer |43. Over and around the wall |31 is a chamber |44 having side walls and a top wall |46 suitably seated upon and sealed to the walls |45, the latter being suitably seated upon and sealed to the iiange |39. At a low point the wall |45 has an outlet |41 communicating with a, duct or pipe |48 for drawing out the fluid drawn through the molding die as the fibres are being accreted thereon, the duct |48 being connected to a suitable source of suction (not shown). The molding die means is shown in full lines in Fig. 13 when in elevated position or out of the bath |49 in the vat or tank |50, and in dotted lines when submerged in the bath |49 when the accreting action takes place. Also, the molding die means is carried by any suitable operating means (not shown) for lowering and raising the die means into and out of the vat |50 for submergence in and emergence from the bath |49.

In the vat |50 is a felting plate |5| having an opening |52 generally of the same shape but smaller than the opening in the lower part of the molding or forming plate or wall |31. The felting plate |5| is so supported as to be normally above the level of the bath but depressible when the forming die means is lowered and submerged in the bath. The plate |5|, shown by way of illustration, has lugs |53 extending into springs |54 held upright in any suitable manner. When the molding or forming die means is lowered, the plate |5| contacts the chamfered or guiding surface |43 to direct the plate to the seat or shoulder |42 formed on the bottom of the molding wall |31. By reason of the opening |52 being smaller than the opening in the lower end of the molding wall |31, the plate |5| has a portion |55 inwardly overhanging the shoulder or seat |42 so that the plate I 5| acts as a backing or support for the edge |56 of thel accreted blank or carcass |51, other wise the edge portion of the blank would taper or be of incorrect thickness. The plate portion also prevents the sloughing ofi of the fibrous material of the edge portion |65 of the blank when the die is raised out of the bath and as the bath fluid in the chamber |58 of the molding die means fiows out as the die means is raised out of the bath.

In operation, with the device in the position shown in full lines in Fig. 13, a suction or subatmospheric pressure is created in the chamber |44 and the device is lowered and submerged in the bath |49 as shown by the dotted line position thereof in Fig. 13 of the drawings. As the device is lowered and submerged in the bath |49, as shown by the dotted line position thereof in Fig. 13 of the drawings, the lower end of the molding wall |31 contacts the plate |5|, the chamfered face |43 guiding the edge portion of the plate |5| to its seat or shoulder |42 of the molding die, and then the platen is depressed while compressing the springs |54, to the full line position shown thereof in Fig. 13.

The suction in the chamber |44 draws the water through the holes |38 and the interstlces or apertures of the screen or sheet |4| to be delivered to the duct |48, causing a deposit, accretion, interlacing and integration of the fibres in the form of a contoured layer or stratum |51 on the screen or sheet |4|, the thickness and compactness or density of this stratum depending upon the time of immersion, the. magnitude of the suction, the nature of the fibres, and the percentage of the fibres in the bath. In some cases setting up a vibration in the molding or forming die or in the bath mass or both will also have some effect, particularly in the interlacing of the fibres, the vibration causing the fibres to be more effectively interlaced.

When the desired layer or stratum is accreted,

aazaoos interlaced and integrated, the device with the stratum or blank |51 therein are raised out of the bath |49. The suction during the emergence of the device and stratum from the bath is continued to prevent the washing away or sloughing off of some of the brous material, and also, after emergence thereof, to draw air through the fibrous blank or stratum |51 for removing surplus water, that is, as a. preliminary step in the drying of the blank 51.

If desired warm or heated air or the like may be thus drawn through the blank to dry the blank to some extent but it is preferable to dry the blank in a manner herein otherwise more fully disclosed.

To assist in expelling the surplus water in the blank, a male die |59, shown in dotted lines in Fig. 13, may be applied to the blank with pressure to squeeze out some of the water as also to partly compress or compact the blank, the suction in the chamber |44 continuing to draw out this water and discharge it through the duct |48.

The male die |59 may comprise a contoured Wall |60 preferably of yieldable material such as rubber, or the like conforming to the shape or contour of the inside of the blank |51, the wall |60 at its lower end having a flange |6| clamped between a ring |62 and a platen |63 by means of suitable securing elements such as bolts |64. 'I'he platen has an opening for connection of a duct or pipe |65 for supplying fluid under pressure in the chamber |66 of the die member or bag |60. As the pressure fluid in the chamber |66 is stressed at any given or desired pressure it causes the bag |60 to expand and compress the blank |51 evenly at all points, the direction of pressure being at a normal to the surface of contact of the blank |51 at each point of contact.

After compressing the blank as above described the male die may be removed, and the molding die may serve, if desired, as a transfer means for the blank |51. This may be effected by bringing a male die such as is shown in Figs. 14, 15, 16, or 1'1 into place within the blank |51, and the suction in the chamber |44 changed to a pressure so as to force off the blank |51 from the molding die and cause it to be deposited on the male die mentioned. Or, if desired, the blank |51 may be merely blown 01T from the molding die without the use of the male die mentioned, and the blank or carcass |51 may then be placed on the male die of Fig. 14, etc., in any suitable manner.

One form of male die is shown in Figs. 14 and 15. It is of the yieldable type and comprises a hollow member or bag |61 composed of any suitable yieldable material, such as rubber, gutta percha, or the like with or without imbedded reinforcing means such as a yieldable fabric whether metal mail, textile elements in woven, knitted, netted, or like fabrication, etc. The member |61 is normally of the same contour as the blank |51 and at its base comprises a flange |68 clamped between a platen |69 and a flange |10 of a. hollow rigid member also contoured to conform to the general contour of the member |61, the clamping being effected by any suitable means as bolts |12. The thickness of the member |61 preferably decreases or tapers toward the upper portion thereof for a reason later disclosed. Upon the member |61 reposes a drain means or fluid escape means |13 similar to drain means 28 and generally and conventionally shown in Figs. 14 and 15 and more specifically shown (as drain means 28) in various forms in Figs. 6, 7, 8, 9, l0,

11 and 12 of the drawings and herein otherwise more fully described.

Within the member |61 is provided a chamber |14 in which is included the rigid member |1|, comprising a space |15 between the lower portion of the member |61 and the rigid member |1|, as-

also a. passage |16 over the upper end |11 of the member |1|, this chamber being designed to contain a. fluid, preferably a liquid, under pressure. The platen |69 is suitably apertured for the connection of a pipe or duct |18 for thev conduction of the pressure fluid from a suitable source of pressure (not shown).

In the upper part of the chamber |14 is located a hollow rigid member |19 having a chamber |80 and a wall |8| having an aperture |82, this member |19 forming together with the rigid member |1| relatively movable parts or components of the rigid die part of the yieldable male die mentioned, the relative movement between these parts being as desire'd within the limits of the space |16 between the wall |8| and the upper edge portion |11 of the member |1|. The aperture |82 provides for passage of the pressure fluid in the chamber of the member |19.v

Rigid or integral with the wall |8| is a sleeve |83 having telescopic relation with a stem or shaft |84 having a head |85 between which and the Wall |8| reacts a helical spring |86 normally tending to hold the parts |19 and |1| apart. The stress of the spring |86 is adjusted or regulated by a screw |81 threaded in the platen |69 and held in adjusted position by a lock nut |88, the upper end of the screw being suitably designed, such as by having a pivot tip |89 in a pivot recess in the head |85. 'Ihe platen |69 at its margin has an encircling flange |90 to enclose a chamber |9| encircling the lower portion |92 of the yieldable die as also the lower portion |93 of the drain means.

To prevent the portions |92 and |93 from being distended or distorted into the chamber |9| when fluid pressure is applied in the inside of the bag |61; a lateral supporting ring |94 is provided in the chamber |9| and adjacent to the portions |92 and |93 above mentioned. This ring encircles these portions |92 and |93 and is provided with apertures |95 for the passage of the fluids driven off by the heat of the die means, suchas the water, steam, vapors, gases. or the like into the chamber |9|. The ring may have a few lugs |96 for holding the ring |94 in proper position in the chamber |9|, as shown in Fig. 14. At one or more points, the chamber |9| is connected by way of one or more pipes or ducts |91 for the draining away of the fluids mentioned above, such as the water, steam, vapors, gases,

vor the like, driven off by the heat of the die means, and if desired such pipe or pipes |91 may be connected to any suitable source of suction (not shown).

The rigid die member comprises a contoured wall |98 the inside surface of which is so outlined and designed as to give to the outer surface of the blank or carcass 51 the desired configuration and decoration. The wall |98 has a base flange |99 so constructed and arranged as to form a closure for the chamber |9I when the rigid and yieldable die members are brought together by suitable press-operating mechanism not shown). Either rigid or integral with the wall |98 near its base are provided side walls 200 upon which is a cover plate or top wall 20|, these walls enclosing a chamber 202.

Within the chamber 202 is located a device for distributing a heating medium upon the outer surface of the contoured wall |98, this device comprising a plurality of annular ducts 203 and 204 having apertures 205 and 206 so disposed and located as to distributively project jets or sprays of the heat bearing medium, such as a vapor of a volatile liquid whereby the heating of the contoured wall |98 may be effected over the various portions of the wall |98 as desired. A condensible vapor is preferable because of the abundance of the heat of vaporization when it condenses. The ducts 203 and 204 are connected together by ducts 201 for the conducting of the heat bearing fluid from one to the other, and to the duct 204 is a supply duct 208 leading to the heat bearing fluid supply (not shown). At low points in the chamber 202 are connected outlet or drain ducts 209 for conducting away the heating fluid after giving up its heat to the wall |98. Any form of heat bearing fluid may be used whether it be in gaseous, vaporous, or liquid form.

At the top of the wall |98 is provided a hub 2|0 having a recess in which is xed an end 2|| of a duct or pipe 2|2 connected to a fitting 2|3 having valves 2|4 and 2|5, the valve 2|3 being connected to a duct or pipe 2|6 and the valve 2|5 being connected to a pipe or duct 2|1 having its lower end xed in the flange |99 and leading to the chamber |9|. In the bottom of the recess in the hub 2|0 is provided a plug 2|8 having a plurality of holes or apertures 2|9 for the passage of the fluids driven 01T by the heat of the dies, such as water, steam, vapors, gases, or the like, especially those given off from the upper portion of the carcass or blank |51. Depending upon which valve 2|4 or 2|5 is open the driven-off fluids may pass to the duct 2|6 to escape to the atmosphere or any other desired place or by way of the duct 2|1 to the draining chamber |9| which, if desired, may be subjected to sub-atmospheric pressure for more effectively drawing away or draining the fluids mentioned.

The drain means |13, corresponding to the means 28 in Figs. 2 and 3, between the carcass |51 and the yieldable die is more particularly shown in various specific forms in Figs. 6, '1, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 of the drawings and repetition of their specific description is not necessary here, reference being simply made thereto for the purpose of this part of the disclosure.

In operation the chambers |14 and |80 are filled with a suitable fluid, preferably a hot fluid, such as hot water, or hot oil, or the like, which uid is put under suitable pressure from any suitable pressure source (not shown) the pressure being transmitted by way of the pipe or duct |18. To dry or dry finish a carcass or blank, the fluid pressure in the yieldable die is reduced or released, and the rigid and yieldable dies are separated. The accreted carcass received from the accretlng means, shown in Fig. 13, is then placed on the yieldable die, that is upon the draining means |13. The dies are then brought together by suitable press-operating means (not shown) so that the iiange |99 will close and seal the chamber |9|. Pressure is first effected by way of the upper rigid member |19 through the upper portion of the bag 61, the latter so yielding or otherwise as to conform to the contour of the upper portion of the blank |51 and as to press the upper portion of the draining means |13 to also conform to the contour of the upper portion of the blank |51. This effects a pressing of the upper portion of the blank or carcass |51 against" the upper portion of the hot wall |98 so as to start the driving ofi of the fluids, such as the water, steam, vapors, gases, or the like, at that# portion of the carcass, the lower portion of the draining means being still free and not loaded with like fiuids. The fluids mentioned escape in the interspersed spaces or voids in the draining means thence to the chamber |9| to be drained out by way of the pipe |91, a suction being used if desired, to assist in their action. If either valve 2|4 or 2|5 be open some of the fluids will escape by way of the duct 2|2 to either pipe 2 I6 or 2 |1.

At the same time, the pressure uid in the chambers |14 and |80 is put under pressure so that the pressure fluid in the space between the bag |61 and the rigid wall |1| will expand that portion of the bag and cause the lower portion of the draining means to press the lower portion of the carcass against the lower portion of the hot wall |98, to then drive off the uids, such as water, steam, vapors, gases, or the like, from that portion of the carcass into the draining passages in the draining means and thence to the chamber |9|. Then the pressure in the fluid in the yieldable die is reduced or released and the dies separated, so that the dried or dry nished carcass may be removed. This cycle of operation is effected in but a few seconds of time.

It will be noted that the upper portion of the bag |61 may be thinner than the lower portion thereof. That is of advantage when it is desired to apply heat from within the carcass, or from the hot pressure fluid, so as to assist the action of the heat from the upper portion of the wall |98 when the pressing action is initiated. As the fluids are acted upon by the heat from the wall |98, they will tend, if trapped, to act as heat insulation, and it might require more heat at a higher temperature to effectively drive oli` all of the fluids through the thickness of the carcass. By also supplying heat from within the carcass, less heat at a higher temperature mentioned above will be required as sucient heat to reach only half way through the carcass need be supplied from each side, and the danger of scorching or otherwise damaging the blank will be avoided.

After the carcass is removed from the dies, it then may be trimmed and the edge at the opening of the article beaded if desired. If it is beaded, it may be operated upon by suitable die means (not shown) similar to that disclosed in Patent No. 2,093,167, issued September 14, 1937, to William C. Gray.

In the form of device shown in Fig. 14 the carcass has no coverings at the time it is operated upon, the coverings being later applied if coverings are to form parts of the finished product. Such coverings may be a stratum or strata of a fused and solidified permanent thermoplastic substance of a vinyl resin base type, preferably of a polymerization group, or may be sheets of textile fabric bound to the carcass by such a substance or the like as desired. When binding the fabric to the carcass, the device of Fig. 14 may be used, the heat effecting the fusing of the thermoplastic substance which on cooling solidies and binds the fabric coverings rmly to the carcass, such substance acting as an extremely tenacious adhesive.

In some cases it may be desirable to apply different pressures over different areas of the article, as also diierent heat effects. In Fig. 16 is shown a device of this type. The female or rigid die part is identical to the corresponding female or rigid die part shown in Figs. 14 and 15, and,

therefore, the same reference characters are used.

The yieldable die comprises an upper yieldable or pliant die part or bag |61a and a lower yieldable or pliant die part or bag |61". 'Ihese bags are of yieldable material, such as rubber, gutta percha, or the like. The bag |61a has a flange 220 clamped between a ring 22| and a plate 222 by means of bolts 223 or the like. The plate 222 has a hub 224 rigid or integral with a platen 225. The bag |61b has an upper flange 226 clamped between th, plate 222 and a ring 221 by means of bolts 223, and a lower ange 228 clamped between the platen 225 and a ring 229 by means of bolts 230 or the like. The bags |61a and |61b respectively enclose chambers 23| and 232 for containing a pressure fluid in each independently of the other so that different pressures may be effected in these chambers. 'I'he chamber 23| communicates with a source of pressure (not shown) by way of a pipe or duct 233 fixed in a suitable opening provided in the plate 222 and passing through a suitable opening in the platen 225, and the chamber 232'communicates with a source of pressure (not shown) by way of a pipe or duct 234 xed in a suitable opening provided in the platen 225. The platen 225 has at its periphery a channel shaped portion 235 providing therein a chamber 236 closed by the flanged part |99 of the rigid or female die part. 'I'he chamber 236 communicates with a source of suction by way of a pipe or duct 231 fixed in a suitable opening provided in the bottom wall 238 of the channel shaped part 235. On or over the outer surfaces of the bags |61a and |61b is placed the drain means |13 and upon the drain means |13 reposes the blank or carcass |51. 'I'he drain means |13 is conventionally shown in Fig. 16, and is more specifically shown in various forms in Figs. 6, '1, 8, 9, 10, 11 and l2.

Within the chamber 23| is located a hollow rigid die member 239 having a chamber 246 and a wall 24| having an aperture 242, this member 239 being contoured to conform to the contour 45 of the upper portion of the carcass. Rigid or integral with the wall 24| is a sleeve 243 having telescopic relation with a stem or shaft 244 having a head 245 provided with a flange 246 between which and the wall 24| reacts a helical 50 spring 241 normally tending to press upward and to strain the upper portion of the bag |51. The stress of the spring 241 is adjusted or regulated by a screw 248 threaded in the platen 225 and held in adjusted position by a lock nut 249, the u upper end of the screw being suitably designed, such as by having a pivot tip 250 in a pivot recess in the head 245.

The draining means |13 extends into the chamber 236 for delivery of the fluids given off by the heat of the die means, and for escape of such fluids by way of the duct 231.

It is preferable to apply different pressures on the bags |61a and |61, as for example, a greater pressure may be effected in the fluid (such as 65 hot oil or the like) in chamber 23| to give the upper portion of the blank |51 a greater thrust, and a lesser pressure in the fluid in chamber 232 to give the lower portion of the blank or carcass |51 a lesser thrust. In some cases it 70 may be desirable that the upper portion of the carcass be compressed and dried rslightly in advance of the lower portion of the carcass, whereby the pressure in the chamber 23| will be effected prior to the pressure in the chamber 232. 75 In some instances the pressure in chamber 232 may be the same as in chamber 23| or brought up from a lower pressure to the same pressure as in chamber 23|, depending upon the desired or needed results of drying in different portions of the article.

In operation the device acts as described above kin connection with Fig. 14, except there may be a differential of pressure applied to the carcass. The member 239 will first press the upper part of the carcass, and then the bags |61a and |61b in that order will press the sections adjacent them so that the pressing and drying may be produced progressively with the result of a more rapid and efficacious discharge of the fluids given off by the heat and pressure of the die means, and a better control of the drying over the different portions of the carcass. A finished article of the kind produced by this means is shown in elevation in Fig. 16a.

In the form of device shown in Fig. 17, a yieldable die of the type shown in Fig. 14 is used with an additional means for conducting off the fluids given off by the heat of the die means, the conducting means being applied at a high point of the device. The rigid or female die part is identical to those shown in Figs. 14, 15 and 16. The yieldable die part has a platen 25|, similar to that shown in Fig. 14, having an upstanding flange 252 with which seats and seals the flange |99 of the female die to close a chamber 253. In the chamber 253 is a lateral supporting ring 254 having apertures 255, for preventing the distortion or distending of the wall portion 256 of the yieldable die member or bag |61c and the lower part of the draining means |13 when pressure is applied thereon. The bag |61c has a flange 251 clamped between a ring 258 and the platen 25| by suitable securing elements, such as bolts 259.

At the upper part of the bag |61 is provided a nipple 260 to which is connected an end of a flexible duct 26|, the other end of this duct being connected to a nipple 262 threaded in the platen 25| as shown, the nipple 262 being connected by way of a duct or pipe 263 leading to a suitable source of suction (not shown) if desired.

In the upper part of the chamber 264 provided in the bag |61 is located a hollow rigid die member 265 having a chamber 266 and a wall 261 provided with an opening 268. The member 265 is contoured to conform with the contour of l-the upper part of the blank or carcass |13. Rigid or integral with the wall 261 are provided studs 269 extending into helical springs 210 reacting between the wall 261 and a plate 21| also having studs 212 extending into the springs 210. The stress of the springs 210 may be adjusted or regulated by screws 213 threaded in the platen 25| and held in adjusted position by lock nuts 214, the upper ends of the screws having pintle or pivot parts 215 in recesses provided in the plate 21|. The plate 21| also has an opening 216 for the extension therethrough of the duct 26|.

The draining means |61c, corresponding to the draining means |61 of Fig. 14, and being of any specific form as shown in Figs. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and l2, has a suitable opening 211 registering with the nipple 266. By such a structure fluids driven of by the heat and pressure of the die means are rapidly and readily conducted away, especially at the upper portion of the die. The duct 26| is so reinforced as not to collapse under pressure of the fluid in the chamber 264 in the bag I 61 but may easily bend or flex under the expanding and contracting action of the bag IBF.

To the platen 25| is connected a duct or pipe 21B for supplying fluid (such as hot oil) under pressure to the chamber 264. In other respects the structure is similar to that shown in Fig, 14 and is correspondingly identified by like reference characters. The operation of this device is similar to that described in connection with Fi .5.

Vhile I have herein described and upon the drawings shown various embodiments of the invention, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited thereto but comprehends other constructions, arrangements of parts, details, forms, features, process steps, or the like, without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Having thus disclosed the invention, I claim:

1. A device for drying an article composed of fibrous material initially accreted, interlaced and integrated into the final given form from suspended fibres in a liquid suspending medium and having a predetermined contour, comprising a rigid die member having a contoured face portion conforming to a contoured face portion of the article, a yieldable die member on the opposite side of said contoured face portion of said article and having a self-maintained contoured face portion conforming to the contoured face portion on said opposite side of said article, a drain means for said yieldable die member and comprising a hollow member composed of flexible and yieldable material and providing therein a chamber for a pressure fiuid and having a contoured surface portion conforming to said opposite contoured surface portion of said article, an aggregate of relatively movable rigid elements so arranged and constructed as to repose on said contoured surface portion of said hollow member and to flex and yield to conform to said opposite contoured surface portion of said article and to compress the latter, said elements having spaces among them for the escape of uids driven off by heat, a movable rigid member in said hollow member for pressing against a given portion of said hollow member to strain the same and for pressing a portion of said aggregate of rigid elements against a portion of said opposite contoured surface portion of said article, means for heating said device for supplying heat to said article for driving off said fluids, and a pressure fluid in said hollow member.

2. A device for drying a fibrous article, comprising a rigid die member having a contoured face portion conforming to a contoured face portion of the article, a yieldable die member on the opposite side of said contoured face portion of said article and having a self-maintained contoured face portion conforming to the contoured face portion on said opposite side of said article, said yieldable die member comprising a hollow member composed of flexible and yieldable material and providing therein a chamber lfor a pressure fluid and having a contoured surface portion conforming to said opposite contoured surface portion of said article. an aggregate of relatively movable rigid elements so arranged and constructed as to repose on said contoured surface portion of said hollow member and to flex and yield to conform to said opposite contoured surface portion of said article and to compress the latter, said elements having spaces among them for the escape of fluids driven off by heat, a movable rigid member in said hollow member for pressing against a'given portion of said hollow member to strain the same and for pressing a portion of said aggregate of rigid elements against a portion of said opposite contoured surface portion of said article, resilient means for normally pressing said rigid member in said hollow member against said given portion of said hollow member, means for heating said device for supplying heat to said article for driving of! said fluids, and a pressure fluid in said hollow member.

3. A device for drying an article composed of fibrous material initially accreted, interlaced and integrated into the final Agiven form from suspended fibres in a liquid suspending medium and having a predetermined contour, comprising a rigid die member having a contoured face portion conforming to a contoured face portion of the article, a yieldable die member on the opposite side of said contoured face portion of said article and having a contoured face portion conforming to the contoured face portion on said opposite side of said article, said yieldable die member comprising a hollow member composed of flexible and yieldable material and providing therein a chamber for a pressure fluid and having a contoured surface portion conforming to said opposite contoured surface portion of said article, an aggregate of relatively movable rigid elements so arranged and constructed as to repose on said contoured surface portion of said hollow member and to flex and yield to conform to said opposite contoured surface portion of said article and to compress the latter, said elements having spaces among them for the escape of fluids driven oil" by heat, said hollow member varying in thickness from one portion to another portion thereof, a movable rigid member in said hollow member for pressing against a thinner portion of said hollow member to strain the same and for pressing a corresponding portion of said aggregate of rigid elements against a corresponding portion of said opposite contoured surface portion of said article, means for heating said device for supplying heat to said article for driving off said fluids, and a pressure fluid in said hollow member.

4. A device for drying an article composed of fibrous material initially accreted, interlaced and integrated into the final given form from suspended fibres in a liquid suspending medium and having a predetermined contour, comprising a rigid die member having a contoured face portion conforming to a contoured face portion of the article, a yieldable die member on the opposite side of said contoured face portion of said article and having a contoured face portion conforming to the contoured face portion on said opposite side of said article, said yieldable die member comprising hollow members composed of flexible and yieldable material and providing therein chambers for containing pressure uids. said hollow members having contoured surface portions conforming to contoured surface portions of said opposite contoured surface portion of said article, an aggregate of relatively movable rigid elements between said contoured surface portions of said hollow members and the corresponding contoured surface portions of said opposite contoured surface portion of said article and being so constructed and arranged as to flex and yield in conformity to said corresponding contoured surface portions of said article and to compress the latter, another aggregate of relatively movable rigid elements between the opposing surface portions of said hollow members and being so constructed and arranged as to flex and yield in conformity to said corresponding opposing surface portions oi said hollow members. said rigid elements of said aggregates having spaces among them for escape of fluids driven oi! by heat, said aggregate between said hollow members providing for an additional way of escape for the uids to the way of escape for the fluids in the aggregate between said article and said hollow members, means for heating said device for supplying heat to said article fol; driving oi said uids, and pressure fluids in said chambers oi said hollow members.

EDWARD C. SLOAN. 

